Avoid the biggest CV mistakes with these four steps

 

We all know that applying for a new job can be a time-consuming and all-encompassing task. The job application process requires dedication, concentration and focus. That also extends to the seemingly minor details that can result in glaring errors.

However, the good news is that there are simple steps you can take to ensure this doesn’t happen to you. Even if your attention to detail can be lacking, this guide will help you with techniques to spot these CV mistakes and correct them in time. 

What are some of the most common CV mistakes? 

There are many types of common mistakes that you can make on your CV. People often make the biggest CV mistakes because they prioritise communicating their experience and suitability for the role. When writing your CV, make sure you look out for: 
 
  • Spelling mistakes 
  • Grammatical errors 
  • Consistency  
  • Formatting  
  • Readability and flow 

How can common mistakes in your CV affect your chances of securing a job? 

When it comes to your CV, common mistakes can be the difference between getting an interview or facing rejection. Submitting a CV that is full of errors can prevent you from securing an interview. This is true no matter how well you might fit the job description.

Four major CV mistakes to avoid at all costs: 

1. Check for spelling mistakes and grammatical errors: 

Errors in spelling and grammar are inexcusable. With the help of technology and spell-checking software, these are both easy to avoid.  Before submitting your CV and cover letter, you must always:
 
  • Use the spell-checking software on your computer and set it to the correct language.
  • Print off your CV and cover letter. Printing will make these documents easy to read, so bad grammar and spelling mistakes will seem more obvious.
  • Read your CV out loud, which will highlight any glaring errors to you.
  • Read your CV backwards – a proven way to pick up errors.
  • Ask a friend or relative to proofread your CV and covering letter for you.
  • Make use of free online software such as Grammarly, Slick Write, or Paper Rater to help you spot any grammatical errors.
  • Change the font or colour of the font to help you see your application in an unfamiliar light. Doing so will make it easier to spot mistakes. Just remember to change the font and font colour back before you send off your application! 

2. Aim for consistency and prioritise attention to detail: 

Ensure all elements of your application are consistent. Consistency helps to demonstrate that you have taken care with your CV. Here’s how to show your attention to detail:
 
  • Ensure you are consistent in your use of abbreviations and capitalisations. Sometimes a candidate uses an abbreviation to refer to their company in one instance, but not another.
  • Consistently use the same simple font and font size throughout your application. The same goes for copy in bold or italics.
  • Write in the first person throughout.
  • Ensure you maintain a professional tone. Avoid sounding too casual at all costs. 

3. Avoid a poorly formatted application or CV: 

Formatting is often one of the first things a recruiter or hiring manager will notice. Here’s how to make the best first impression possible:
 
  • Keep your reader in mind; your application must be as easy to follow as possible.
  • Make sure your personal information is clear and easy to read. For example: email addresses, phone number and social media details.
  • Avoid large paragraphs. Break up key information using bullet points.
  • Avoid using logos and pictures on your CV. These elements result in poor formatting that won’t translate well onto systems the hiring manager may be using.
  • Keep it simple. Avoid the temptation to use backgrounds, borders or clipart.
  • Zoom out of the document to get a clearer view of formatting.
  • Ensure your page transitions are smooth. If your CV is more than one page long, try not to list a job at the end of one page that spreads over to the second page.
  • Try converting the document into PDF to ensure the formatting stays as you intended it to be. 

4. Ensure your job application flows from one part to the next: 

Making sure your application flows is particularly important if your job application contains an email or cover letter. Take time to double check the following:
 
  • Do your paragraphs flow?
  • Does your writing flow and make sense to the reader?
  • Read your application out loud to spot any tricky-to-read sentences. Reading out loud should also help you flag any words you are overusing.
  • Read your application to a friend or relative to double check that they understand what the key messages are.

Avoid common CV mistakes and create an outstanding application

Give yourself plenty of time to take every one of the above steps before you send your next job application.
 
Recruiters spend a lot of time checking applications. By sending one that is error free you will highlight just how diligent and conscientious you are. You will be making it even more likely that you will receive an invitation to interview for the role you’re applying for.
 
Related Articles: The job search / CV support
 

Author  Jane McNeill

Director, Hays Australia

Jane McNeill joined Hays in 1987 as a graduate trainee in their London head office after graduating with an MA (Hons) in Psychology from Edinburgh University. She began her career recruiting accountancy & finance professionals, before spending 11 years recruiting senior permanent professionals for London’s banking & finance sector. During this time she quickly progressed through management roles and in 1992 she was appointed Director after leading the London city business to a phenomenal post-recession recovery.
Jane transferred to Perth, Western Australia, in 2001. Over the next decade she grew Hays’ business in that state from a team of 15 to nearly 250 staff. She also established and managed Hays’ banking & financial services business.
She was appointed to the Hays Australia & New Zealand management board in 2007. Now based in Sydney, Jane oversees Hays’ operations in both NSW and WA. She is responsible for 400 staff located in two states that are separated by a five-hour flight and a three-hour time difference. At the same time, she retains her keen interest and passion in banking & financial services recruitment by adding national responsibility for Hays Banking and Hays Insurance to her remit.